Katorah Kasanova Marrero (born April 3, 1992; Age: 32 years) is a highly influential American rapper who has made a significant mark in the music industry. Professionally known as Young M.A., the acronym stands for “Young Me Always.” Young M.A.’s journey to fame has been marked by her distinctive voice and unapologetic attitude, setting her apart as a unique and powerful presence in hip-hop.
Young M.A.’s rise to prominence can be attributed to her raw talent and authentic approach to her music. Her unique voice and clever lyricism have resonated with audiences, making her one of the most recognizable and respected figures in the rap world.
Early Life
Katorah Marrero was born in Brooklyn, New York, raised and nurtured under the care of his family. Raised in the tough neighborhoods of East New York, she learned to navigate life’s challenges early on, developing the resilience that would later define her artistry.
Young M.A. was born to a Jamaican mother and a Puerto Rican father. Her father spent a decade in prison after he was incarcerated. She grew close to her brother and mother and moved to Chesterfield, Virginia, when she was seven. She started playing tackle football and writing rhymes in schoolbooks at age 10. Her mother encouraged her and purchased a karaoke machine she set up as a makeshift studio.
Education
In 2010, Young M.A. achieved a significant milestone in her educational journey as she graduated from Sheepshead Bay High School.
Young M.A.’s passion for music was already evident during her time at Sheepshead Bay High School. However, she demonstrated a remarkable ability to balance her artistic pursuits with her academic responsibilities.
Young M.A.’s educational journey was not solely about classrooms and textbooks. Growing up in Brooklyn’s vibrant but challenging neighborhoods, she gained an education in resilience, resourcefulness, and street smarts.
Career
Music served as Young M.A.’s sanctuary, providing her an escape from the harsh realities of the streets surrounding her. Influenced profoundly by her mother’s deep love for hip-hop and inspired by the lyrical prowess of iconic artists such as 50 Cent and Jay-Z, Young M.A discovered solace in crafting verses that echoed her life experiences. Her childhood, marked by adversity, served as the fuel for her creative passion. During these formative years, she realized the transformative power her words held—the power to inspire and resonate with others.
The turning point in Young M.A.’s career arrived in 2016 with the release of “Ooouuu.” This track proved to be a game-changer, sending shockwaves throughout the music industry. Its raw energy, coupled with gritty storytelling and Young M.A.’s undeniable presence, thrust her into the limelight. The song’s viral success transcended geographical boundaries, capturing the hearts of listeners far beyond the streets of Brooklyn. Through “Ooouuu,” Young M.A.’s unfiltered authenticity became a powerful force, symbolizing the emerging generation of hip-hop artists.
One of Young M.A.’s most remarkable qualities was her refusal to conform to gender norms within the male-dominated realm of hip-hop. She fearlessly embraced her identity, allowing her music and lyrics to speak candidly about her truth. This unwavering authenticity set her apart and highlighted a shifting tide within the industry—a growing acceptance of artists who challenged stereotypes and redefined conventional notions of success.
In 2017, Young M.A. further solidified her presence in hip-hop by releasing her debut EP, “Herstory.” This project served as both a chronicle of her journey and a bold declaration of her rightful place in the annals of hip-hop history. “Herstory” showcased Young M.A.’s unparalleled storytelling abilities, weaving her experiences into narratives that resonated deeply with her fans. Through this EP, she demonstrated her capacity to transform her trials and triumphs into relatable stories, solidifying her position as a true wordsmith in the industry.
Furthermore, Young M.A.’s talent garnered recognition from some of the most successful figures in American music, including collaborations with renowned artists such as Eminem and T-Pain. Her consistency in delivering powerful performances on various tracks showcased her versatility and ensured her enduring relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry.
Discography
Albums
- Herstory
- Off the Yak
Singles
- Ooouuu
- Hot Sauce
- PettyWap
- Stubborn Ass
- Big
- Car Confessions
- Bleed
- Successful
- Dripset
- Bad Bitch Anthem
Awards & Nomination
- BET Awards
- MTV Music Video Awards
Personal Life
Young M.A.’s openness about her sexual orientation has been a defining aspect of her career, reflected in her music. In a candid interview with the Breakfast Club, she revealed that her attraction to girls began as early as first grade, fearlessly embracing her identity from a young age.
Tragedy struck Young M.A.’s life when her brother, Kenneth Ramos, fell victim to a senseless act of violence, being fatally stabbed by a former acquaintance on September 26, 2009. The devastating loss left her paralyzed by grief, leading to her absence from school for a month. She sought counseling to cope with the overwhelming sorrow, demonstrating her resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Young M.A has made a significant impact through her philanthropic work, showcasing her deep-rooted commitment to her community. In response to the support she received from her upbringing, she founded the KWEENZ Foundation, a testament to her determination to give back. Her involvement in various charitable efforts underscores her belief in the transformative power of social change, using her platform to uplift others and drive positive transformation.
Young M.A.’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the music industry. As she continues to evolve as an artist, she leaves an indelible mark on hip-hop culture. Her music, shaped by her unique identity and personal journey, is a beacon of resilience and authenticity. She empowers others to embrace their narratives and stand unapologetically in their truth through her unwavering honesty.
Social Media
- Instagram: @youngma
- Twitter: @youngMAMusic
Net Worth
Young M.A is a successful rapper and selling artist with an estimated net worth of US$5 million.
